Pond Monitoring Volunteer

Shropshire Wildlife Trust work on behalf of Natural England to restore and create ponds for the benefit of Great Crested Newts across Shropshire. To monitor the effectiveness of our work, we need to undertake annual surveys of each pond to monitor habitat suitability and determine if there are Great Crested Newts in the ponds. We do this by collecting Environmental DNA (eDNA) samples (this term will be explained when you start volunteering).

As a pond monitoring volunteer, you will:

• Assist in the collection and processing of Environmental DNA samples (full training will be provided).   
• Help with surveys to record habitat and water quality for Great Crested Newt, using the habitat suitability index (HSI) which will be explained when you start volunteering.

Volunteers will work alongside our Species Recovery Officer to survey ponds. You will not be lone working as we’ll be working near water.

This role can involve walking some distance over rough, steep, muddy or uneven ground, occasionally entering fields with livestock, as well as carrying and handling equipment. 

Pond monitoring volunteers will enjoy:

• Opportunities to learn about the ecology of Great Crested Newt.
• Training and support in undertaking eDNA and habitat suitability index (HSI) surveys. 
• Opportunities to engage with wildlife 
• A chance to spend meaningful time outdoors in natural settings, which can support physical and mental wellbeing
• Volunteer social events  

What skills do I need?

No prior experience is required for this role.

We are looking for people who:

• Are fit and active
• Are happy to work outdoors in all weather
• Are happy to carry out a variety of tasks, working as part of a team

We’ll ask you to read and adhere to our safeguarding policy, health and safety policy, and our volunteer code of conduct. You’ll receive a copy of these when you apply.

At Shropshire Wildlife Trust, we’re committed to building a diverse and inclusive team where everyone is welcome. If you’re worried you don’t have quite the right skills, might not be able to participate in all activities, or need any support or adjustments to the role, have a chat with us and we’ll do everything we can to help you volunteer. 

Travel information:

Free transport is available via SWT branded vehicle share with staff member from Shropshire Wildlife Trust HQ, 193 Abbey Foregate, Shrewsbury, SY2 6AH, or from an agreed suitable location near survey site/s.

Public transport is not a viable option due to varied rural locations of the survey sites across the county.  

Location

This opportunity has no specific location e.g. can be carried out anywhere.